Many people travel to sunny Sarasota, on Florida's Gulf Coast, as their vacation destination itself, but you can extend your trip south by traveling down to Key West. Sarasota's attractions include the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, and the pristine beaches of Longboat, Lido and Siesta keys. You can stay on the beach in a condo on Siesta Key, and also take fishing charters and boating tours of the area. For a side trip on a touring boat to Key West, a short drive is necessary.

From Fort Myers

You can take a catamaran trip to Key West from Fort Meyers Beach, which is a one-and-a-half hour drive south from Sarasota on Interstate 75. In Fort Myers Beach, board the 170-foot Key West Express, which follows Florida’s west coast and lands in Key West. The trip takes about three and a half hours each way, and you'll have six hours for exploration in Key West. You can also arrange to stay the night in Key West and return the next day. Lunch and beverages are served on the boat, and movies and other activities are available.

From Marco Island

Boats to Key West also sail from Marco Island. The Key West Express leaves Marco Island's boarding dock early in the morning. This choice allows for stops along way, with a chance to explore other places on Florida's West Coast. The city of Naples is about two hours south of Sarasota, and it's another half hour to the Marco Island loading dock. After arriving in Key West, you have a relatively easy but rather long walk to the center of town -- but you can arrange cab or trolley services through the touring boat.

Ferry from Fort Myers

A jet-propelled ferry to Key West is also available in Fort Myers. This trip also takes about three and a half hours. The ferry has heat and air-conditioning, along with private cabins. The boats have turbo-diesel engines and vary in size from 130 to 170 feet. Amenities include large flat-screen televisions, and indoor and outdoor seating. Food and beverages are served, and there's a full bar.